FIU snuck in one more football practice early Thursday morning before being closed down by T.S. Katrina. For nearly two hours in full gear, the team worked a normal practice schedule in spite of extended periods of heavy rain.

Despite the best efforts of team managers to keep a dry ball, the rain played havoc, particularly on passing drills. Several defensive picks occurred on quarterback throws that slipped in and out of the hands of would-be receivers.

While the results may not have been desirable, the effort was certainly noticed and commented on by head coach Don Strock.

“We had an excellent day of practice, despite the weather. Everybody worked hard out here this morning,” he said. “I didn’t expect every ball to be completed on every play because it weights a ton. But technique, being in the right place, running the right routes and knowing what to do is equally important right now.

“The quarterbacks were looking at the right place and the receivers were making the right reads. The line had some breakdowns, but as long as they’re going full speed, we can correct those,” Strock said.

Due to the storm, Strock canceled Friday’s scheduled practices and plans to work the team twice on Saturday, in the morning at 8:30 a.m. and later in the afternoon.

No new injuries were reported and sophomore tight end James Williams (hamstring) returned to work after missing the last several days.

The Golden Panthers open their 2005 campaign on September 3 at Kansas State and play the home opener on October 1 against Florida A&M in the 69th annual Orange Blossom Classic at FIU Stadium, featuring a halftime performance by the FAMU's "Marching 100" Band. For information and tickets, call toll free (866) FIU-GAME or (305) 348-4263 in Miami-Dade County.